YouTube thumbnail size:
1280 × 720 pixels.
Upload an image and BasePic makes a 1280 × 720 thumbnail — and can shrink the file under 2 MB.
or drag and drop files anywhere on this page · paste an image with Ctrl+V
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Download a video
Download only what you have the right to use. Files stay on BasePic for one hour.
YouTube thumbnail and channel sizes
Sizes in pixels, width × height. Upload a photo above and pick any of them under Resize → Social.
| Image | Size | Aspect ratio | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Thumbnail | 1280 × 720 px | 16:9 | Video thumbnail. JPG, PNG or GIF under 2 MB. |
| Channel banner | 2560 × 1440 px | 16:9 | TVs show all of it; computers and phones show the 1546 × 423 middle. |
| Profile photo | 800 × 800 px | 1:1 | Shown as a circle. |
How it works
- Upload your image
Tap Upload photo. Resize opens with YouTube thumbnail already picked: the image is cropped to 16:9 and sized to 1280 × 720.
- Save it
Drag the box to keep the part you want, then tap Save & get link.
- Shrink it if needed
If the saved thumbnail is over 2 MB, open Resize on it, choose File size and pick 2 MB or less.
Why 1280 × 720
YouTube recommends 1280 × 720 pixels for custom thumbnails, in a 16:9 shape — the shape of the YouTube player and its previews. The smallest width is 640 pixels.
Under 2 MB
YouTube asks for thumbnails under 2 MB in JPG, PNG or GIF. File size in Resize keeps the best quality that fits the limit.
Make it readable
Thumbnails are often shown small. Big text, a clear face and strong contrast work best — add text with Edit → Layers.
YouTube thumbnail size: questions
What is the YouTube thumbnail size?
1280 × 720 pixels, 16:9, at least 640 pixels wide and under 2 MB.
How do I make a thumbnail under 2 MB?
Save the thumbnail, open Resize on it, choose File size and pick 2 MB, 1 MB or 500 KB.
Can I add text to my thumbnail?
Yes. Tap Edit, then Layers, and add text, shapes or your logo.
What size is a YouTube banner?
2560 × 1440 pixels, with a 1546 × 423 safe area in the middle.